A dog will not work for a simple 'thank you.' Food motivation is the most effective stimulus for the animal. You can use both store-bought treats and homemade offal snacks, and in some cases, even fresh fruits or vegetables will do, noted dog trainer Vladimir Golubev. The expert shared tips on how to properly stimulate a dog during training.
Any treats that your pet enjoys will work for successful training. If you are choosing store-bought treats, prefer those with minimal additives and flavorings, and with the most natural ingredients. Raw meat cut into small pieces, offal (both raw and dried), and small amounts of cheese can also be used as rewards. It is important to consider the dog's taste preferences: some prefer cheese, while others prefer dry offal.
Familiar Food
Unlike humans, dogs do not get bored with monotonous food. Therefore, kibble can be an excellent reward for your pet. The pet will happily obey a command if it receives a portion of its favorite kibble afterward. To make it even more appealing, you can place the kibble in a container with something strongly scented (for example, store-bought sausage). The kibble will absorb the aroma, which will attract the dog's attention.
You can also use wet food as a reward; for this, purchase a special rubber Kong that can be filled with liquid food. When the dog obeys a command, give it the toy, and it will enjoy chewing on it.
Any treats that attract the animal are suitable for training. However, remember not to give your pet too many large pieces in a row, as well as pieces that are too small, which the dog could choke on. Monitor the quantity of treats offered: they should not make up more than 10% of the daily diet. If you plan to train, reduce the daily portion of kibble on that day.
Play Motivation
Think about what else, besides food, brings joy to your pet. Perhaps it is a favorite plush bunny that it always plays with, or playing with a ball or frisbee. The hunting instinct can become your ally: it can help you motivate the dog. When the pet wants to get an object, it will obey commands, knowing that it can get what it desires afterward.
Undoubtedly, food is the simplest and most reliable way to motivate your pet. However, sometimes it is worth switching from food to play and verbal praise for the dog.
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